Yatakilt Kilkil
Ethiopian Cabbage and Carrot Stir-fry
A comforting and mild Ethiopian vegetable stir-fry featuring tender cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, seasoned with aromatic turmeric and ginger. This dish is a staple vegetarian option, often served with injera.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1/2 medium head Cabbage
- 2 medium Carrots
- 2 medium Potatoes
- 1 medium Yellow Onion
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 inch piece Fresh Ginger
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil or Ghee
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1/4 cup Water or Vegetable Broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- for serving Injera(Ethiopian sourdough flatbread)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or pot over medium heat (about 175°C / 350°F). Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 2
Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir to coat them with the onion mixture. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are beginning to soften but are not yet fully tender. Stir occasionally.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
Add the thinly sliced cabbage and turmeric powder to the skillet. Stir everything together well to ensure the cabbage is coated and the turmeric is evenly distributed. The cabbage will seem like a lot, but it will wilt down significantly. Cover and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the potatoes and carrots are fully cooked through. The vegetables should be moist but not soupy.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 4
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, traditionally accompanied by injera for scooping up the flavorful vegetables.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
- ✓This dish is naturally vegan if vegetable oil is used.
- ✓Adjust the amount of turmeric to your preference; it provides a beautiful color and earthy flavor.
- ✓Ensure vegetables are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of fresh green beans along with the potatoes and carrots.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped green chili with the garlic and ginger.
- A small amount of tomato paste can be added with the onions for a deeper flavor profile.